High temperatures cause stress not only on the human body but also pets — especially if left unattended in a vehicle.

Mike Vemon, director of the Russellville Animal Shelter, said the summer heat is dangerous to pets, especially if they are left in vehicles.

"People need to leave them at home in this weather," Vemon said. "We have received several calls from businesses about animals being left in cars."

Vemon said even with the windows cracked, a temperature of 85 degrees can rise to more than 100 degrees inside a vehicle.

"If we receive a call, we dispatch an animal control officer to check on the animal," Vemon said.

If the animal is not in seirous condition, the officer will find the owner and discuss animal safety. However, if the animal seems to be in critical condition, the officer will break into the car and rescue the animal.

"The owner can face animal cruelty charges," Vemon said, even if the pet is only showing the signs of heat-related illness.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), within 30 minutes, a vehicle's interior can reach 120 degrees on an 85-degree day, and shade offers little protection to pets inside a hot vehicle.

Pets most at risk for overheating are young animals, elderly animals, overweight animals, animals with short muzzles and animals with thick or dark-colored coats.

If a pet is overheated, ASPCA suggests soaking the animal in cool water and seeking veterinary care immediately.

ASPCA offers tips for traveling with pets in hot weather, such as bringing a thermos of cold water, exercising during the coolest part of the day and never immediately after a meal, avoiding hot asphalt and providing shade.